“Walk In My Shoes” Campaign Sheds Light on Hidden Struggles of MS Patients Across India

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A New Lens on Multiple Sclerosis

Bengaluru, August 22, 2025 — In a country where nearly 200,000 people grapple with the complex neurological disease Multiple Sclerosis (MS), a new nationwide initiative seeks to give voice—and vision—to struggles that often remain invisible. The “Walk In My Shoes” campaign, spearheaded by Roche Pharma India in partnership with the Multiple Sclerosis Society of India (MSSI), is creating immersive experiences in major cities to foster empathy and awareness about MS. Through both physical simulation zones and digital resources, the campaign aims to educate the public, empower patients, and inspire systemic change in MS care nationwide.

Unveiling the “Invisible” Burden of MS

Multiple Sclerosis is a chronic, autoimmune disorder that disrupts the central nervous system, often leading to progressive physical and cognitive impairment. Unlike many other chronic illnesses, MS’s most profound effects are frequently hidden: overwhelming fatigue, cognitive impairment (“brain fog”), chronic nerve pain, and emotional struggles including depression and anxiety.

Dr. Pramod Krishnan, Head of Neurology at Manipal Hospital, Bengaluru, describes MS as “a disease with symptoms that silently but persistently erode a person’s ability to engage in everyday life.” He points to delays in diagnosis and unequal access to care as primary barriers in India’s MS ecosystem.

Experiencing MS Firsthand: The Simulation Zones

At campaign events in Bengaluru, Mumbai, and New Delhi, the public is invited to step into the shoes of MS patients—literally and figuratively. Simulation zones recreate four key symptoms:

Loss of balance
Impaired motor function
Blurred vision
Loss of sensitivity

These experiential setups allow visitors to navigate daily tasks under the weight of MS-like symptoms. “Only by walking in the shoes of MS patients can we truly understand their invisible struggle,” notes Arun Mohan, Vice President of MSSI.

Beyond the Events: A Digital Knowledge Hub

Accompanying these events is the dedicated platform www.walkinmyshoes.in, which provides medically verified resources for patients, caregivers, and healthcare professionals. The initiative aims to bridge gaps in knowledge, promote early and effective treatment, and support holistic disease management.

Key Findings and Expert Commentary

Recent surveys underscore the disconnect between visible and invisible aspects of MS:

Pain (including neuropathic pain) and fatigue are common, yet frequently misunderstood or dismissed by peers and healthcare providers.
Cognitive impairment affects memory, focus, and daily functioning, contributing to feelings of frustration and self-doubt.
Mental health challenges—depression and anxiety—impact nearly half of MS patients, exacerbated by social isolation and stigma.
70.5% of MS patients list progression and future disability as their greatest fear, even when on effective therapy.

“Living with chronic, unpredictable symptoms means patients must constantly ‘tough it out’ and may conceal their challenges to avoid being misunderstood,” says Stephanie Buxhoeveden, patient advocate. Dr. Krishnan adds, “India is moving toward personalized, high-efficacy therapies, but timely diagnosis and equitable access are still hurdles”.

Context: The State of MS Care in India

MS most commonly develops between ages 20 and 40, striking individuals during their prime years. Despite growing awareness, India faces:

Lack of reliable prevalence data
Limited insurance coverage for chronic MS care
Scarcity of MS specialists
Absence of standardized disability assessment guidelines

Rajji Mehdwan, Managing Director & CEO—India & Neighbouring Markets, Roche Pharma, emphasizes, “Our responsibility goes beyond providing medicines; we must challenge stigma and foster an inclusive approach to care”.

Implications for Public Health

The campaign’s goals align with global calls for integrated MS care:

Early initiation of high efficacy therapies can reduce long-term disability and societal burden.
Awareness initiatives demystify symptoms and encourage social support for affected individuals.
Enhanced mental health resources, patient support networks, and community education can improve overall quality of life.

For readers: If you experience unexplained neurological symptoms—balance issues, persistent fatigue, vision problems, or chronic pain—seek medical advice promptly. Early diagnosis is crucial for optimal outcomes.

Addressing Counterarguments and Limitations

While simulation zones provide powerful empathy-building experiences, experts caution that they cannot fully replicate the daily unpredictability of MS. Surveys may be subject to recall bias and limited by response diversity. As Dr. Krishnan notes, “Self-administered questionnaires are useful but only one piece of the puzzle; clinical and social evaluations must go hand-in-hand”.

Conclusion: Toward Empathy and Action

The “Walk In My Shoes” campaign represents a progressive step in public health outreach, balancing scientific evidence with compassionate understanding. By spotlighting hidden symptoms and sharing real-life stories, advocates hope to dismantle stigma, foster support, and drive policy change for people with MS.

Medical Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with qualified healthcare professionals before making any health-related decisions or changes to your treatment plan. The information presented here is based on current research and expert opinions, which may evolve as new evidence emerges.